It’s been four decades since the world discovered what became known as the deadly virus AIDS, but a new UNAIDS report shows how we can end it. Since then, scientists worldwide have worked tirelessly to find a cure for HIV, the virus that progresses to AIDS. What the world has achieved are pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) drugs, like Truvada.
These drugs prevent those prone to HIV from contracting the virus if exposed to it. As helpful as PrEP medications are, the world is still actively looking for a cure. In a press release to mark the 40th year since the world discovered AIDS, a UNAIDS report presented evidence that showed that the world could end the virus.
The organization noted that high-performing countries provide paths for others to follow. Since 2010, AIDS-related deaths have fallen in large part due to the rollout of antiviral therapy. The fatalities dropped by 43% to 69,000 in 2020. There has also been progress in reducing new HIV infections, a 30% decrease since 2010.
The UNAIDS plans to initiate an “ambitious and achievable strategy” to end inequalities and reach HIV populations currently left behind to ensure the numbers keep decreasing. Their goal is to get the whole world on track to end AIDS by 2030.
If achieved, then 95% of people who need HIV services will have access to them without fear of discrimination. It would reduce the yearly infection rate by 370,000 and the death rate to fewer than 250,000 by 2025. But to achieve this, the UNAIDS needs the United Nations General Assembly to get nations to commit to investing and implementing the global AIDS strategy.
In the meantime, Truvada continues to help people fight off HIV but at high costs. Find out about the drug’s side effects and your legal options from our mass tort lawyers.
